It’s a wonderful thing when you have the chance to visit your best friend and collaborate on a styled shoot at one of the most lovely, faerie tale venues in the Southwest. Anyone planning a Phoenix Wedding really must visit Chateau de Vie. Any Phoenix Wedding Photographer should visit Chateau de Vie! It’s elegance and charm make it a unique oasis in the desert. It’s architecture is reminiscent of the Loire region of France, known for its hilltop chateaus and lush valleys. Thus, the inspiration from this shoot comes from the colors and the elegance of Loire, hence we dubbed the shoot, “Desert Loire” as the chateau really is an lush gem in the middle of a desert community.
The Chateau de Vie was originally the Kyrene Mansion and was dreamed and constructed in 1984 by Phil Erickson, a framing contractor. After owning the property for some 15 years, the Ericksons decided to relocate. By 2010, the property had fallen into disrepair. In 2011, Shelly and Nick Goodman became the new owners of this architectural find and have since been honored to restore the beauty of the exquisite estate to its former glory.
A Chateau de Vie wedding encompasses so much. The estate is expansive and had we all day to cover it, I probably would have images from all of the secret rooms, sitting rooms, dining areas and stately offices. However, we focused on some of the areas most likely to see guests gather. There are so many options here for the cocktail hour, couples portraits, ceremony and reception!
One of the most beautiful things about this shoot was the fact that it is also the 20th wedding anniversary year of our models, Seth and Jennifer Hamblin! So the first look was real, folks. After 20 years of marriage and two precious daughters, these two have only grown more and more in their love. It was only fitting that after 20 years, they had the opportunity to enjoy this view and a day at this enchanting Arizona wedding venue.
Planning a shoot across the country has the potential to be crazy, but Meagan Crain and Crain and Company Events was incredible…causing the vision to come to life, coordinating multiple wedding professionals, the timeline and so so much more. I can confidently say that I can’t imagine an event in Arizona without her expertise and guidance! And it was a lot of fun to have vendors from across the country. Caitlyn with Kay Kay’s Printing and Stationery in Virginia created a lovely wedding invitation suite, accented by vintage French postage. And oh my, was I impressed with all of the Tucson and Phoenix area professionals!
Katie’s florals were so very lovely and hearty, gracing both the tables and the bouquet. And who wouldn’t want to dine in in this oasis paradise? La Tavola’s linens paired with the Confetti Studio’s tabletop treasures create the softest, French-country-side inspired tablescape.
And of my…that Hayley Paige dress from J. Bridal…how stunning on Jennifer! Heather created the perfect elegant look for her hair and make up, with a pop of lip color to mirror the color in the florals. The detail of the dress and way it simply flows like air swirling around Jennifer is so whimsical and romantic. And of course, I had to photograph her in this beautiful dress in the bridal sitting room!
Brittanie with Abby Cakes is responsible for this gorgeous confectionery creation. The bottom tier boasts a subtle wood grain texture with gold flaking in the middle tier and a delicate and intricate floral and greenery accent gracing the front.
Seth’s black trimmed, blue tuxedo from Generation Tux is the perfect choice for a gentleman and his bride. And again, Posh Petals designed the perfect bouquet to accent his style.
Coming soon is yet another surprise! Ben and Courtney from Ben and Bluebird were with us for the day curating a visual masterpiece and I can’t wait to share this soon as well!
We all hope this inspirational shoot can help every Arizona bride imagine what her big day might be at Chateau de Vie! The potential here is limitless and I offer special packages for Chateau de Vie brides who book with me and at least one other vendor from this remarkable shoot! Be sure to check out these talented folks below!
Venue: Chateau de Vie
Planning: Meagan with Crain and Co. Events
Florals: Posh Petals
Hair and Make Up: Heather VanHouten Hair and Make Up
Wedding Gown: Dakota from the Blush Collection by Hayley Paige from J. Bridal
Linens: La Tavola
Cake: Abbie Cakes
Invitation Suite: Kay-Kay’s Stationery and Printing
Videography: Ben and Bluebird
Table Top Rentals: Confetti Studio
Menswear: Generation Tux
Ring Box: The Mrs. Box
Models: Seth and Jennifer Hamblin